LL Cool J Opens Up For The First Time About Violent Home Intrusion

Rapper/actor and 2013 Grammy Awards host LL Cool J has had lots of memorable moments to chat about over his legendary career. However, there’s one memory he hasn’t spoken publicly about—until now.

Back in August 2012, LL’s Los Angeles-area home was broken into in the middle of the night . While his family slept, the entertainer woke to an unusual noise, went downstairs, and took down the stranger single-handedly. He punched the man—described by authorities as a 56-year-old transient—and pinned him down until police arrived.

The intruder ended up suffering a broken nose and jaw and was charged with first-degree burglary. LL and his family were unhurt.

At the time of the incident, the star released a statement assuring fans that he and his family were okay, and thanking them for their concern. However, months later, he has finally opened up to Oprah Winfrey about the frightening break-in. He explained that at the time he mostly felt relief that he was able to protect his family.

“What was on my mind was what could have happened if I wasn’t home,” the 45-year-old said. “It wasn’t one of those ‘beat your chest’ moments, it was one of those grateful, gratitude, ‘Thank God’ moments that I was able to handle the situation.”

“If I wasn’t [there]—a houseful of women, there’s no telling what could have happened,” LL, who has a wife and three daughters, added. “He had bad intentions.”

The interview with Winfrey took place in the very room where LL tussled with the burglar. He pointed out to the talk-show host exactly where the altercation happened. “I came through the door…we had our moment over there.”

Be sure to tune in for the full interview, which will be featured Sunday on OWN's Oprah's Next Chapter, at 9 p.m. ET/PT. LL Cool J, who is a two-time Grammy winner, will host the 55th Annual Grammy Awards on February 10. The show will air live on CBS at 8 p.m. ET/PT.